CM Punjab Launches Land Records Digitization Survey to Ensure Accuracy and Transparency
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially started a province-wide survey to digitize land records, aiming to improve the accuracy, transparency, and efficiency of land-related services. This major step is part of the Punjab Urban Land Systems Enhancement (PULSE) project, which is being carried out in partnership with the World Bank.
Main Goals of the Survey
This land records survey has been launched to:
- Ensure correct records of land ownership and boundaries.
- Prevent fraud and disputes related to property.
- Make land services faster and easier for the public.
Key Features of the PULSE Project
- Modern System of Land Recording
The old “khewat” system is being replaced with a new system that uses unique parcel numbers for each piece of land. This will make it easier to track and manage land ownership. - Land Classification System
All land in the province will be labeled under three categories:- Green: Clear ownership and no issues.
- Yellow: Minor issues that can be resolved.
- Red: Disputed or legally challenged properties.
- Digital Mapping Through GIS
Geographic Information System (GIS) technology will be used to create accurate digital maps of each land parcel, helping with better management and planning. - Simplified Property Processes
Services such as getting land records (Fard), property transfers, and name changes (mutations) will be simplified and made more user-friendly.
Special Services for Overseas Pakistanis
The government has introduced several online services to help Pakistanis living abroad manage their property more easily:
- Online Property Transfers: Overseas citizens can transfer property without visiting Pakistan.
- Digital Document Submission: Property-related forms can be submitted and processed online.
- Land Help Centers: 11 special centers are being set up in major cities to assist with land issues for overseas Pakistanis.
Monitoring and Evaluation Plan
To make sure this system works smoothly:
- The performance of land officials, including commissioners and tehsildars, will be checked through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
- Deputy Commissioners will monitor weekly progress, while Assistant Commissioners will carry out daily checks.
What This Project Will Achieve
With the completion of this project, the Punjab government hopes to:
- Reduce property disputes by maintaining clear records.
- Improve tax collection by keeping track of land ownership accurately.
- Empower citizens by making land services transparent and easy to access.
By introducing digital systems, the government aims to build trust among the public, resolve long-standing land issues, and make land services efficient and accessible for everyone.
